A mix of mystery, art and passion comes to life in the splendid Sicilian setting of Taormina. The secret motion of the starsdebut novel by Fabrizio Virtuanitransports us to a world where art crimes intertwine with the depths of the human soul, giving life to a unique and enveloping “art mystery”.
The story
The protagonist of the story is Alessandro Greco, an investigator with twenty years of experience in cases of theft and illicit trafficking of works of art. Involved in a series of dramatic events, including an attempted robbery at an exhibition of Greco-Roman treasures, a subsequent theft and the brutal murders of two young women, Greco finds himself navigating the shadows and secrets of a city that seems to hide more than you show. At his side, Michele Leonardi, chemist and restorer tormented by his past, and a cast of vivid and passionate characters: Sarina, the witty cook who offers precious insights with her proverbs and popular wisdom, and Elena, a sensual pharmacist involved both in the investigations and in a love story that leaves the reader suspended between emotion and curiosity.
A unique experience
Virtuani, with the sensitivity of someone who deeply knows and loves art, gives us a “synesthetic” narrative experience: from the flavors of traditional Sicilian cuisine to the enchanting landscapes, from the scents of oleanders to the rhythm of the local dialect, each element contributes to creating an immersive atmosphere that envelops the reader. Taormina, with its Greek theater and its suggestive streets, becomes not only a backdrop, but a real character, a tribute to Italian beauties and their fragility in the face of human greed.
Behind this first work there is the personal transformation of the author. Virtuani, a top manager with a passion for archeology and literature, decided to pursue his lifelong dream: telling stories through the character of the detective he had always wanted to be. And it is a dream that comes true with immediate success, demonstrated by the enthusiasm with which the publisher welcomed the manuscript.
With The secret motion of the starsVirtuani offers us not only a compelling detective plot, but also a journey into Italian cultural treasures, into the folds of the human soul and into the traditions of a Sicily that fascinates and surprises. It is the beginning of a series that promises to enchant lovers of crime fiction and beyond, skillfully mixing beauty, mystery and a profound reflection on the cultural and artistic identity of our country. An unmissable read for those who love noir, art and the authentic flavors of our land.